Cornerstones of Our Charter Schools
All of our charter schools are modeled after Brilla College Prep, a school inspired by the classical tradition that aims to help students grow intellectually, socially, and physically into young men and women of good character and spirit; to be prepared for high school, college, and beyond; and to be lifelong seekers of truth, beauty, and goodness. These seven cornerstones will shape each new charter school:
- High Expectations. Because we believe in the inherent dignity and potential of every child, we have high expectations for our students’ academic achievement and conduct.
- Lead with Character. Good character makes for a meaningful life and produces lasting personal and social happiness. As a result, the development of the virtues of justice, wisdom, self-control, courage, and kindness in students and staff is a central part of our educational mission.
- Results Matter. We relentlessly focus on high student performance on standardized tests and other objective measures because we hold ourselves accountable for helping students develop personally and academically in ways that will enable them to succeed at the nation’s best high schools, colleges, and careers.
- Choice and Commitment. Students, parents, and staff freely choose to be a part of our school communities. No one is forced to attend one of our schools. Everyone must make and uphold a commitment to put in the time and effort required to achieve success.
- More Time. There are no shortcuts. Only with increased instructional time and more time “on task” will students acquire the academic knowledge, skills, and habits that will prepare them for success in college and in life.
- Teach the Best Content. All students will learn math and science while also becoming familiar with the literary and philosophical classics of Western Civilization, because of the way the traditional liberal arts promote the pursuit of truth, beauty, and goodness, and because children need the world’s best content in order to become good citizens who are competitive globally.
- Culture of Joy. A culture of joy is intentionally infused throughout each of our schools. This joy is readily visible in teachers, other staff, students, and their families.